Anderlecht mid-season review: David Hubert turning things around despite injury crisis | OneFootball

Anderlecht, like Club Brugge, started the season slowly. Brian Riemer was let go as a result, although much of this was down to injuries and an incredibly slow transfer window over the summer. Signings were rushed through at the end of the window, and under David Hubert the side have recovered to find themselves in third place at the break. However, they are nin points adrift of Genk in first place.

The side have been plagued by injuries this season, and in many respects goalkeeper Colin Coosemans has been one of the stars of the campaign. Not many felt he had what was needed to be the sides number one this season, but so far he has proved all the doubters wrong. At the other end, Kasper Dolberg has been in great form with 18 goals in 29 games across all competitions. If Anderlecht had acted quicker in the summer, the side could have found themselves closer to both Club and Genk by this point in the campaign.

Transfer needs

Definitely another central defender. If Zanka leaves for LA Galaxy this month they will have to bring in another defender, with Jan Vertonghen’s advancing age and injuries problems meaning he cannot be relied upon to lead the defence week in week out. Another option at right-back could also be a good bet, with Killian Sardella linked with moves away and having suffered injuries this season. Thomas Foket should fill that role, but he too has been injured at times this season.

The side are set to sign another winger in Cesar Huerta. On paper at least, the signing looks to be a good one. Huerta has impressive numbers in the Mexican league and should give the side a boost going forward for the second half of the season.

The best thing for Anderlecht would be another defender and then somehow recovering most of their key players by the end of the month. Given the way the league operates with points halving in the play-offs, if they can maintain a manageable gap to the top two then a shot at title number 35 is not out of the question, even if somewhat unlikely. They will also have a Europa League knock-out campaign to navigate, having done exceptionally well in the competition so far.

GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson